Thailand Rushes to Repeal Over 100 Laws to Boost Business

Deputy Prime Minister Pokkrong Nileprapen disclosed on July 31 that the government is accelerating efforts to repeal over 100 laws proposed by the private sector to lower business costs and strengthen the nation's competitive capacity, emphasizing tourism and industry. The government is collaborating with three private sector institutions through a public-private partnership committee to examine laws that obstruct business operations. Most proposals come from the Chamber of Commerce and the Industrial Council, which must be grouped and prioritized by their impact on the economy and competitiveness.

Pokkrong stated the approach will avoid lengthy master plans and instead seek clear input from the private sector on specific legal problems and necessary amendments. Once draft revisions are clarified, stakeholder consultations will follow immediately, and approved principles will be submitted to the Cabinet for implementation by respective government agencies. The government will prioritize laws affecting sectors outlined in the "Leading Thailand" strategy, particularly tourism and industry, where high business costs hinder international competition.

Pokkrong noted the team has already held preliminary consultations with the private sector to identify practical and impactful proposals, with a tracking system established for continuous progress monitoring. However, he acknowledged that legal reform alone is insufficient; structural costs—especially high energy prices affecting all businesses—must also be addressed concurrently. Originally estimated to take two months, the process has advanced significantly, with clearer outcomes expected within 1-2 months, as the government must move quickly to deliver tangible change.